Half or Full Day Independent Hire
From $80/person
“Freedom to explore—quiet coves, clear waters, and Golden Bay on your own terms.”
What to Expect
Set out from Tata Beach in our stable double kayaks, equipped for safety and comfort. With a map, briefing, and your gear sorted, paddle where you like - whether past seal-rich shores, under limestone arches, or onto golden hidden beaches. Experience nature your way, at your pace.
At a Glance
Duration: Half-day (~8:30 am – ~1:00 pm), Full-day (~8:30 am – ~4:30 pm) We do allow walks in but encourage you to join us for the 8.30am and make the most of the calm conditions, sometimes it can get breezy/windy later in the day.
Includes: Safety briefing, kayak & gear, maps, flare, spare paddle, first aid
Best for: Experienced or water-confident paddlers seeking freedom, family groups who know their way together
Bring: Water, layers, sun protection, lunch/snacks; no jeans
Minimum: 2 people (single kayaks available if needed for groups with odd number of 3 or 5.)
Why You’ll Love It
Paddle at your own pace - adventure without a schedule
Be guided, not guided - trusted support, ultimate independence
Visit places not found on tour maps - quiet, wild, unforgettable
Build memories on your terms - with family or friends in sync
We also offer Multi-Day Independent Hire.
START: 8.30am
HALF DAY RETURN: 1pm
FULL DAY RETURN:4.30pm
PRICE PER PERSON.
Half day $80.00/person
Full day $110.00/person
BRING
• Bottled water
• Warm/windproof jacket - merino or fleece
• Food and Water plus suncream
• Camera or Phone
• Light clothing that can get wet - NO JEANS
WE PROVIDE
• Safety briefing
• Maps
• Life Jackets and paddling equipment
• Flare and spare paddle
SUITABLE FOR
• Minimum 2 people
• If you have kayaking experience and are water confident
• If you have outdoor experience
WHAT COULD I SEE?
• Seals and other mammalian friends
• It’s a birdwatching paradise!
• Archways and rock formations
• Stingrays
MAKE THE MOST OF IT
Get out of bed and make the most of your day, the mornings are the best time for calmer water.
PLAN YOUR TRIP
• Takaka - 25 mins
• Motueka - 1 hour
• Nelson - 2 hours
Sit-on-Top Kayak Hire
FROM $45
“Simple, safe, and fun — the perfect way to enjoy Golden Bay from the water.”
What to Expect
A relaxed way to explore close to Tata Beach. Our sit-on-top kayaks are stable, easy to use, and ideal for beginners, kids, or anyone just wanting a gentle paddle. Launch straight off the beach and enjoy the coastline at your own pace - spotting seabirds, rays, or seals if you’re lucky.
At a Glance
Duration: Hourly, half-day, or full-day hire available
Includes: Kayak, paddle, lifejacket, safety briefing
Best for: Beginners, families, or anyone wanting a short, easy paddle
Bring: Hat, sunscreen, water, clothes that can get wet
Minimum: No minimum age - family friendly
Why you would love it
Quick and easy to get on the water
Stable and safe - perfect for first-time paddlers
Great family activity - kids love them
A fun, relaxed way to enjoy Golden Bay’s peaceful coastline
PRICE PER PERSON
From $45.00
BRING
• Bottled water
• Warm/windproof jacket - merino or fleece
• Food and Water plus suncream
• Camera
• Hat and light clothing that can get wet - NO JEANS
WE PROVIDE
• Safety briefing
• Maps
• Life Jackets and paddling equipment
• Flare and spare paddle
SUITABLE FOR
• 2 or more people
• Family groups
• Wanting a fun family experience on the water
WHAT COULD I SEE?
• Seals and other mammalian friends
• It’s a birdwatching paradise!
• Archways and rock formations
• Stingrays
MAKE THE MOST OF IT
Mornings are best here, the afternoons can be windy.
PLAN YOUR TRIP
• Takaka - 25 mins
• Motueka - 1 hour
• Nelson - 2 hours